Why it matters
Blood pressure that stays above 130 over 80 slowly damages the arteries, heart, kidneys, and brain. It is the biggest single driver of strokes and a major cause of heart attacks and kidney failure. The good news is that it is one of the most treatable conditions in medicine. Most people can reach a safe number with one or two inexpensive medicines and some changes at home.
How we manage it
- Accurate readings. We measure blood pressure properly, seated and rested, and we ask many patients to check at home with a cuff we can help you choose. Home readings tell us more than a single office number.
- The right medicine for you. There are several families of blood pressure medicines. Your age, kidney function, diabetes, and heart history all affect which one fits. We adjust until the number is right and the side effects are not.
- Labs that watch for trouble. Kidney function, potassium, and cholesterol are checked in the office so nothing gets missed.
- Salt, weight, alcohol, and sleep. These move the number more than most people expect. We will be honest about which changes are worth your effort.
Cholesterol
High cholesterol and high blood pressure often go together, and both raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. We check a fasting lipid panel in the office, estimate your 10-year heart risk, and talk through whether a statin or another cholesterol medicine makes sense for you. Not everyone with a high number needs a pill, and we will tell you if you do not.
When to call right away
A reading above 180 over 120, especially with a headache, chest pain, vision changes, or trouble speaking, is an emergency. Call 911. For readings that are high but you feel fine, call the office and we will get you in.
Common questions
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What blood pressure number should I aim for?
For most adults, below 130 over 80. Your doctor may set a slightly different goal depending on your age and other conditions.
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Will I be on blood pressure medicine for life?
Often, yes, though some patients lower their dose or stop after significant weight loss or other changes. Stopping on your own is risky; we will adjust it together.
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Should I buy a home blood pressure cuff?
Yes, if you can. An upper-arm cuff from a pharmacy is accurate and inexpensive. Bring it to a visit and we will check it against ours.
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Does Medicare cover blood pressure care?
Yes. Visits, labs, and most blood pressure and cholesterol medicines are covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage.